You may want to try using a hand powered grinder. Your budget is unfortunately low for grinders we typically recommend as entry level for espresso. As you've now heard several times the grinder is as important as the machine...so it is really that concept to internalize, then you won't mind spending as much on that as you would on a machine. Hand powered grinders such as the Hario Skerton can do a very good job and save you a lot of money...but they aren't for everyone. The Vario that was mentioned is somewhere around €500, but will do a very good job.

.Always remember the most important thing is what ends up in your cup!

Basically, there are two types of grinders -- those that "chop" with a spinning, or whirling, blade, and those that use burrs. For espresso, you want a burr grinder. Blades chop the beans into uneven pieces, and thus, an uneven extraction. A burr grinder is much better for espresso, but not all burr grinders are alike. You need a burr grinder that was designed for espresso. Thus, the recommendation of a Mahlkönig Vario HOME, a grinder which uses burrs (not blades) and designed for espresso. (I understand, Line, that -- at €380 -- it is twice what you want to spend.)

Well, if you can exchange your beautiful machine for the Silvia at that price it's probably worth it, what she lacks in beauty, she makes up for in performance. Still hard to entertain, but more feasible. Also, would provide more consistent results in the cup.

HOWEVER...you still need a grinder, so don't throw that idea away in the process.

.Always remember the most important thing is what ends up in your cup!

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